Numbers 4:21
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 5
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
This warning preceded detailed instructions about how Aaron and his sons must cover the sacred objects before the Kohathites could approach them. Earlier, Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, had died for offering unauthorized fire, making this warning particularly poignant for Aaron.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this warning against casual approach to holy things challenge contemporary worship practices?
- What does the death penalty for improper worship reveal about God's holiness?
- In what ways does Christ's mediation remove the fear of approaching God while maintaining reverence for His holiness?
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Analysis & Commentary
God's warning through Moses to Aaron reflects the seriousness of priestly responsibility and the danger of presumptuous worship. The tribe of the Kohathites faced unique peril because they handled the holiest objects yet were not priests themselves. This verse emphasizes that proximity to holy things without proper mediation leads to death, not blessing. The Reformed doctrine of total depravity is illustrated here—even the Levites, set apart for God's service, could not approach holiness carelessly.